Frances Anthes stepping down as health center CEO

Family Health Center of Worcester President and CEO Frances Anthes will retire from her post at the end of the year, the organization announced Thursday.

Anthes joined the nonprofit health center in 1991 as deputy director and became CEO in 1997, and has held that position since. Under Anthes, the organization grew from 6,500 patients and a $2.3-million budget to 36,000 patients and a $40-million budget. In 2017, she was inducted into the WBJ Hall of Fame.

Now, the organization operates 16 locations in Worcester County, with a concentration in South Worcester County.

In a statement, Anthes said she'll be working with the board of directors in the search for a replacement and a smooth transition in leadership.

"My love for and commitment to Family Health's work of providing comprehensive health care to patients, regardless of their ability to pay, has inspired me and given me the opportunity to work together with a wonderful team to create access to health care for individuals and families throughout Greater Worcester," she said.

Family Health has retained Illinois executive search firm Witt/Kieffer to assist with the search for Anthes' replacement.